Deadhead
Also known as: Empty Miles, Dead Miles, Bobtail
Definition
Deadhead miles are when a truck drives without freight—pure cost with no revenue. The trucking industry averages 15-20% deadhead miles, representing billions in lost revenue annually.
Deadhead Causes
| Cause | Example |
|---|---|
| Imbalanced lanes | More freight going to LA than from it |
| Failed pickups | Shipper not ready |
| Specialized equipment | Reefer returning from produce delivery |
| Driver home time | Returning to home base |
| Repositioning | Moving to higher-demand area |
Deadhead Costs
- Fuel with no revenue
- Driver time/wages
- Equipment wear
- Opportunity cost
- Environmental impact
Reducing Deadhead
For carriers:
- Use load boards
- Build shipper relationships
- Join freight networks
- Optimize routing
- Negotiate repositioning pay
For shippers:
- Offer backhaul freight
- Flexible pickup windows
- Consistent volume
- Lane partnerships
Bobtail vs. Deadhead
- Bobtail: Tractor without trailer
- Deadhead: Truck with empty trailer
- Both represent unproductive miles
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